Leif Vollebekk

If Jeff Buckley were not dead and grew up in Ottawa, he would be Leif Vollebekk. I attended an intimate show last night at Raw Sugar Cafe and Leif did not disappoint: his vocal range gives me goosebumps and his lyrics are comfortable and familiar. Since the release of his first album, Inland, is songs have evolved beautifully. He has even created a rock (guitar) version of his song 1921 since have has discovered that he cannot produce a piano wherever he tours. It was quite fantastic. He hopes to record another album this Fall and tell me he has plans to press vinyl, resources willing. I'm all over that! Check him out. Sponsor him even. He's ever-so-talented and needs support!

Photo credit to J B Hildebrand, misappropriated from Myspace.

Umi Café

Found at 610 Somerset St. W, in Chinatown, Umi serves delicious fairly traded organic coffees and gastronomical delights to please the most discerning palettes. The front stoop is often crouded with all manner of fixie riding hipsters. This quaint coffee shop also boasts exciting events, such as vegan bake sales, live music, tarot card readings and seed exchanges. The atmosphere is young, energetic and hip. Local artists are often featured on the brightly coloured interior walls. Last time I visited, I chatted up the co-owners, who were getting dirty out back in their beautiful community garden. All in all, Umi Café is a most fantastic place to kick back and relax with a steaming cup of joe.